The most notorious "Australian nettles" are the stinging trees, particularly those in the genus Dendrocnide . These plants are known for their extreme toxicity.
: Its heart-shaped leaves are covered in microscopic, needle-like silica hairs that inject a potent neurotoxin. The pain is described as being simultaneously electrocuted and burned with hot acid. australian nettle
: Often called the "suicide plant," it is arguably the most painful plant in the world. The most notorious "Australian nettles" are the stinging
Other plants referred to as nettles are smaller and less dangerous, though they still possess stinging hairs. The pain is described as being simultaneously electrocuted
: This species can grow up to 40 meters tall. While its sting is slightly less severe than the Gympie-Gympie, it still causes intense, long-lasting burning pain. Native and Common Nettles
: The pain can last for weeks, months, or even recur for years because the hairs stay embedded in the skin.
: Found primarily in rainforest areas of Queensland and northern New South Wales.